Mono- and Dinuclear 1-(2-Pyridyl)-4-phenyl-1,2,3-triazole-Based Ir(III) and Rh(III) Complexes

The synthesis and characterization of a series of mono-, homo-, and heterobimetallic complexes involving iridium and rhodium centers have been achieved through the reaction of the proligand, 1-pyridyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3-triazole, and [M(Cp)*Cl2]2 (M = Ir, Rh). The ligand undergoes coordination of the N,N fragment and subsequent N-directed C–H activation at the 1,2,3-triazole and phenyl or pyridyl moieties. Alternatively, direct N-directed C–H activation can be achieved. The structures of the prepared complexes were determined using spectroscopic techniques and confirmed by X-ray crystallography. The electrochemical properties of the complexes show a differentiate redox behavior between Ir–Ir centers and a clear influence of the second metal in heterobimetallic complexes. This flexible approach could have potential applications in catalysis and other areas of chemistry.